1. Plug tasks into your calendar

Like so much in life, preparation is key for a successful shindig. Parties can be unpredictable, and the margin of error shrinks when you’re hosting in diminutive digs.

While you can’t foresee every broken glass, wardrobe snag, or Menorah mishap that lies ahead, you can do your best to plan for emergency backups.

Enter your holiday planner.

Enlist your planner as a place to assign due dates for all the tasks on your to-do list. You know, the one you’ve checked twice thrice. The mental database where you’ve written down every sequence for the party, from “stock up on ice” and “chill the champagne,” to “order new cologne” and “hang the mistletoe.”

Don’t be afraid to delegate to-dos. Your guests and loved ones will appreciate the opportunity to help out, especially for tasks they might excel at. Let your DJ friend plan the playlist, or think of who might orchestrate the most scrumptious wine and cheese pairings.

Then seize any free time to plan downtime for yourself. Catch up on self-care, whether it’s via meditating, a spa day, or just curling up with some popcorn and The Elf.

When it’s two days before the party and you have a moment to catch your breath and relax, you’ll be that much more excited to play host.

2. Strategize a scrumptious menu

Your menu depends on the holiday you’re celebrating, dietary restrictions, the selected theme, and vibe of your invitees. So here are some pointers for serving food to multiple guests in a small space:

3. Make as much space as possible

“Clear away clutter before the guests arrive,” suggests Tova Weinstock of Tidy Tova, a professional organizer based in New York City. “Clean surfaces are ideal party surfaces (think: falling picture frames, drink spills getting over your important paperwork, etc.), especially in a small space.”

Not sure how to tackle your clutter, quick?

Weinstock suggests storing any obvious clutter in a shoebox or container during the party. “And if it’s still sitting in the box months later … maybe it’s time to let go of those items!” she adds.

Get rid of clutter during the party by thinking outside the closet. “Pile coats and bags onto your bed,” Weinstock recommends. Or rent a portable coat rack. If the outside hallway is secure, you could even leave it there to save room inside.

You’ll also have to get creative with seating. Think stackable stools or extra floor cushions, which are great fixtures for making small spaces cozy. And remember: Parties are made for mingling, so don’t expect everyone to be sitting the whole time.

One thing you should expect, though? Body heat. Lots of it. Small homes heat up quickly, so leave the windows open a bit to let air circulate freely.

“Decorate using items that can double as party favors,” professional organizers Joni and Kitt of Practically Perfect recommend. Not only does this tackle two tasks in one, they add, but it “also makes party clean-up so much more simple.”